A Little Ferry priest accused of pointing a musket at an 8-year-old boy says that it was all a misunderstanding. He says that he is shocked by the allegations.

Father Kevin Carter, of Saint Margaret of Cortona Church, was charged with aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of a child after a parishioner claimed to have witnessed the alleged act. The parishioner said the priest asked the boy to stand against the wall and pointed the musket at him.

Father Carter says the act was all a joke. Through his attorney, Father Carter released a statement that said, "There were a number of people present on the day of the 'good-natured jesting' between me, a Giants fan (as is well known) and a Cowboys fan. Unfortunately, it seems, that one person misinterpreted the good-natured exchange."

The alleged victim's parents have not commented on the case.

Father Carter is expected to be arraigned on the charges Tuesday. His attorney says that he will plead not guilty.